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Services
Infectious Disease
At Bartz-Altadonna our certified enrollment workers assist individuals living with HIV/AIDS in enrolling into the AIDS Drugs Assistance Program (ADAP), which offers eligible patients access to HIV medications at no cost.
Infectious Diseases are illnesses caused by pathogenic microorganisms sch as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These diseases can spread directly or indirectly, from one person to another or through vectors like insects.
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We offer free Vaccines for adults through the VFA, Vaccines for Adults Program, on eligible patients.
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*FREE vaccines are available to adult patients who are uninsured or have insurance that doesn't cover (certain) vaccines. We do not charge these patients for getting the vaccine or the cost of the vaccine. *
PrEP
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PREP) is preventive strategy involving the use of antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection in individuals who are at high risk but not yet infected. Key aspects of PREP include:
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1. Medication: When taken daily, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV. Studies show that PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by about 99% and by at least 74% among people who inject drugs. However, PrEP is much less effective if not taken consistently.
2. Eligibility: PrEP is recommended for individuals at high risk of HIV, including:
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Those with an HIV-positive partner
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People who have multiple sexual partners or engage in condomless sex.
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Individuals who inject drugs and share needles.
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People with a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
3. Monitoring: Regular follow ups are necessary. This includes HIV testing every three months, as well as monitoring kidney function and other potential side effects.
4. Side Effects: PrEP is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, headaches, and weight loss. Rarely, it can affect kidney function.​
PEP and DoxyPep
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication regimen taken after potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection. It must be started within 72 hours of exposure and taken daily for 28 days. PEP is typically used in emergency situations, such as after unprotected sex, sexual assault, or needle-sharing.
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DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an emerging STI prevention strategy where a single dose of doxycycline is taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. It's currently recommended for certain populations at higher risk and is part of ongoing research and clinical guidance.